All news stories

What is your most memorable story serving members of dv/sa? What was memorable about it? Rewarding, challenging, inspiring?

Over several years DVS worked with an elderly survivor who was repeatedly abused by her husband. We provided shelter and support many times. As is the case with so many survivors, she returned again and again to the abuser. However, each time she participated in shelter and programs she made progress. Her self-esteem and independence grew. Eventually we were able to assist her obtaining her own housing. She faced this extreme abuse for 60 years, but she overcame the obstacles and secured her future. We smile whenever we think of her.

What are the biggest barriers you feel like your organization encounters? How do you address these barriers? 

What are you excited about and proud of with your organization? What are some goals you hope to achieve?

Education is the key to ending domestic and sexual violence within our community. Community awareness, social accountability and change all stem from education. Marta’s House is committed to making sure that our community has access to the most update information and education. Our Education/Outreach Coordinator has been working hard to bring awareness to the community for over 6 years specifically in presenting in Domestic and Sexual Violence, Trafficking and other forms of abuse.

Marta’s House brought the "Start By Believing" campaign to Klamath County in 2014, this campaign focuses on believing the victim from the time they walk in the door to the time we complete services with them.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is a busy time for community-based domestic/sexual violence (DV/SA) organizations/programs. Staff of these organizations work tirelessly to hold events that increase awareness and understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence, advertise and explain their advocacy services, and raise funds to continue to provide services throughout the year. When I worked in a community-based dv/sa program, I remember all of our staff members coming together to pull off multiple events in a short period of time. All hands were on deck to spotlight who we were and who we work with in our community. While this is already a busy time for advocates, it is also the perfect time to reflect on the history of the dv/sa movement. We can find ways to set space to come together throughout the year to collaborate and support one another in the work that we do.

This October, for Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), we are pleased to announce our campaign of Spark Hope Ignite a Movement! 

Historically and currently we are in a time when survivors are breaking their silence, they are breaking their isolation and demanding change. Collectively, we need a clear message about the impact of domestic violence on our communities.